Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member. Let us reflect together on an important question. If democracy had won in Spain, would there have been a second world war? The answer is no. These soldiers—and yes, they were soldiers—fought for freedom and democracy ahead of time.
It must be noted that we are discussing a situation where monetary compensation is not the only solution these veterans want.
To the survivors, psychological and emotional redress is even more important. I think that discussing this amounts to questioning the democratic and egalitarian foundations of our citizenship, to questioning our solidarity.
In conclusion, I would like to share with you an interesting discovery. In the course of my research on this matter, I found a photograph taken in June 1937 on the battlefield in Jarama, Spain. The photograph showed a handmade sign that said, and I quote:
“To our fallen comrades, our victory is your vengeance. June 1937”.
Today as in 1937, a positive conclusion to this matter would give that victory to the survivors and to those who fell on the battlefield. I am very proud of their courage.
They had the courage to stand up and be counted.
I support this motion.